There is a nasty strain of a stomach flu going around that you would want to do whatever you could to avoid. If avoiding all human contact is out of the question, at the very least remember to wash hands thoroughly and frequently. You might also want to consider taking a probiotic supplement. Probiotics are live microorganisms or bacteria that are administered in doses which provide a beneficial health effect on the digestive system.

The most commonly known probiotic is Lactobacillus, the active culture found in yogurt, but there are many other forms. There are many studied benefits of probiotics with results suggesting that the bacteria can:

* Help reduce the risk of certain diarrheal illnesses
* Assist lactose intolerant people with lactose digestion
* Reduce the development of allergies in children
* Manage symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
* Decrease the risk of certain cancers and bacterial infections
* Enhance the immune function

I know those claims may seem lofty to some, but I know I have felt some benefits (mostly lactose tolerance and healthy immune function) since I’ve started taking the supplements.

I have been in very close contact with several individuals who have been infected with the stomach flu over the past month and believe I have been one of the lucky ones due to my daily intake of probiotics. You certainly could get the benefits from whole food sources but I personally do not have the time to purchase fresh, fermented dairy products in the quanity necessary to equate a couple of pills daily. Of course, if you have a compromised immune system, consult your health care provider before taking this or any other supplement.

More information about this little discussed nutrient can be found at Us Probiotics. I sell a quality supplement here,
and you might find other products worth exploring as well. Let me know if you have questions. Otherwise, stay healthy through this yucky stomach flu season!


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